The waterfalls were created by lava flows from Mount Amagi that occurred over 10,000 years ago.
The basalt columns visible at the site are a result of rapid cooling of volcanic lava, forming vertical hexagonal prisms.
Odaru, the largest waterfall, was once private property and inaccessible to the general public until the mid-20th century.
The 'Izu Dancer' (Izu no Odoriko) statue commemorates the Nobel Prize-winning author Yasunari Kawabata, who frequented this area.
Some sections of the riverbed reveal clear prismatic jointing patterns where the river has eroded the ancient lava.
The waterfall trail is connected by a series of suspension bridges that offer elevated views of the river gorges.
Kawazu Seven Waterfalls, known as Kawazu Nanadaru, consists of seven distinct waterfalls formed by volcanic activity along the Kawazu River. The path connecting these falls spans approximately 1.5 kilometers through a valley in the Izu Peninsula. Each waterfall bears a unique name: Odaru, Deai-daru, Kani-daru, Kama-daru, Ebi-daru, Hebi-daru, and Kamada-daru. Odaru is the largest of the seven, measuring 30 meters in height and 7 meters in width. The trail is paved but features staircases and inclines as it navigates the riverbank. Visitors can view a bronze statue of characters from Yasunari Kawabata’s novella, 'The Izu Dancer,' which is set in this region. The area is located in a mountainous region of Shizuoka Prefecture. The falls are formed by basaltic lava flows that cooled to create prismatic jointing formations. The trail is fully accessible to hikers throughout the year.
The suspension bridge overlooking the Kama-daru waterfall provides the most comprehensive angle of the basin.
Wear footwear with high-traction soles as sections of the stone path can be slippery due to river mist.
Start from the top of the trail near the bus stops to take advantage of a mostly downhill walking route.
Carry a small towel for the public footbaths located near the base of the trail.
Attempting the entire trail in formal footwear or high heels, which are unsuitable for the steep stairs and uneven river stone sections.
Remain on marked trails to protect the surrounding volcanic rock formations and riverbank flora.
